Danny Higginbotham fears Stoke City may have to accept a hiding or two this season from the Premier League's big guns.

But he has told his team-mates they most not let their heads drop when the spankings arrive if they are to survive in the top flight.

He said: "You have to understand that there are days when you come off the pitch and you've taken a few beatings.

"But I think you have not to get too disheartened.

"What happens with some promoted teams is that the previous year they are used to winning but it can't be like that in the Premier League. I had it numerous occasions last year up at Sunderland.

"We wouldn't win for a few weeks and no matter what anyone says, it can affect confidence.

"If you get beaten every week it hurts you, so it's important not being bogged down by results.

"You have to stay confident. You have to have no illusions because unless you have a freak season it will be a grind and you have to be ready for that."